What Really Matters?

Meaning is often found embedded in the silent moments of our lives when we can hear and see what matters most, the things audible and visible only to the spirit.

~ Toni Sorenson

Every now and again, as I contemplate my life, my surroundings, my situations ... I find myself needing to step back and reassess. I take these opportunities to put the details aside, and zoom out to the bigger picture. To try to take in the comings and goings of my life like an outsider. To just watch, listen and learn. Without judgment. Without defensiveness. Without attachment. I long to figure out what really matters during these times and focus on those things.

Sometimes it is difficult in life to sort out what really matters. We are bombarded with stimuli and input incessantly. Our phones, watches and computers ding, ring, vibrate, pop up and constantly steal our attention. The news people routinely fill us with bad, sad and uncomfortable stories – almost as though there is a conspiracy to instill panic as often as they can! Our days are filled with chores to do, places to go, people to see. It is awfully easy to get too busy and overwhelmed with everything, letting autopilot take control.

And then we might get hit with something big ... like the loss of a loved one. Which happened to me last month, hence the reason for this theme. As my Dad recently entered the spirit world, his essence is all around me these days and I miss him dearly. It is these significant life moments that can propel us into the discovery of what matters most in our life. Although, it does beg other questions: Why should we wait for those happenings? Why not try to think of and remember what really matters more often, if not all the time?

So, what really does matter? I think this time of year is the prime time to slow down and ask yourself this question. Regardless of which holiday tradition you may partake in, the overture of love, relationships, connections with others, enjoying traditions, appreciating mother nature, and getting lost in your passions should surely rise to the top.

As this year winds to a close, and you participate in the festivities of the season, take a moment to step back yourself. Sure there are the chores that need to be done. The decorating to be put up, and taken down. The gifts that need to be purchased and wrapped. The delicious meals and treats that need to be cooked, prepared and enjoyed. Whew – It is a busy time! But and this is a giant ‘BUT’, you can squeeze in a few moments throughout the day to simply stop, step back and breathe. Notice all the beauty around you. The people that love and surround you. The relationships that sustain you – even the peeps you only see this time of year. Try not to let the smaller details of annoyances and old grievances take hold; just let them go, they should not be a part of the stuff that really matters anyway. Let the bigger picture of love surround you. Try not to judge how others believe or how they act, forgive them and yourself. Be grateful, be thankful and enjoy the holiday cheer!

Part of figuring out what really matters is also keeping in mind we are still human. We are not perfect. We will make mistakes. We don’t do everything ‘right’ all the time. And neither do others! This thought process should also allow us to have tolerance, compassion and respect for ourselves and others with their own stories, especially during the crazy busyness of the holiday season. We also need to understand and remember this: the things that matter will undoubtedly change over time. Our passions shift. Relationships come and go. Locales change. All while life marches on, around and through us.

Take some time when you awake each morning to remember and sort out what is important in your life right now. And then again and again, throughout each day. Life is short, don’t waste it on unnecessary emotions and meaningless actions. Be kind to yourself and others. Check in on those around you and listen, genuinely listen to them while you are appreciating them in your life. Listen to yourself as well. Listen to your desires and what makes you tick and let them take hold and honor them!

Open your soul to what really matters in your life and go after it all! Think of your passions, and what lights you up. What do you honestly enjoy doing? Make more time for it. Schedule it in if you have to. Make it a priority during your days and weeks. My hardest problem is that I have too many passions! I will need to do some meditating on how to best fit them all in ☺︎.

Hold everyone close to your heart during this season. Cherish your loved ones and your zany uncle too. They all have a sacred place in your life. Caylee the Zen Puppy and I wish you all a most joyous and festive season!

Discover, enjoy and cherish the moments and passions that really do matter in your life! What really matters to you?

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And remember to start the new year off on the right foot! Check out my Zen Journey Roadmap, a Daily guided Journal for Inner Peace and Healthy Habits here. A 90-day guided roadmap towards a happier and healthier you! In it you will find dedicated spaces to enrich your Mind, Body and Spirit on a daily basis. You will be able to focus on the key points of life's Zen Journey toward inner peace and happiness by bettering your life from within first. This journal is ideal for anyone starting a journaling practice, or for those who have been journaling for years that may want more structure to easily track their daily feelings and healthy habits. I know you will enjoy your Zen Journey to a more peaceful, happy and healthy life with this trusty guide by your side.